The new brakes are 326mm x 30mm ventilated rotors on the front and 316mm x 20mm at the rear. Toyota claims the new callipers provide a 38 per cent increase of swept area on the front pads for a stronger bite and better braking performance.

The new infotainment system has led to a slight price increase for both models, the GT is $650 extra, starting at $31,440 while the GTS is priced from $36,640 ($150 increase over last year’s model).

Adding the Performance Kit costs $2200 for the GTS model and $2900 to the GT; the price difference is because the GT rolls on 16-inch alloys as standard.

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In addition to the three-item Performance Kit, Toyota is also offering GTS buyers the chance to add even more style to the package. Buyers who opt for the new paint colour on our test car, Moon Slate, get a black rear spoiler, red interior trim highlights and black-finished alloys. This special edition is priced from $39,400.

Other standard gear includes LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, air-conditioning and a limited-slip differential.

What’s under the bonnet?

Toyota has given the engine a slight upgrade, as long as you choose the six-speed manual transmission.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder ‘boxer’ petrol engine still makes 147kW of power and 205Nm of torque in the automatic version but those who prefer three pedals get 152kW and 212Nm.

It may not be a lot of power in an age of 200kW+ hot hatches but it suits the character of the 86. The compact Toyota sports car has always been about balance, poise and extracting every ounce of its performance with a smile on your face, not winning every traffic light grand prix.

When you put it in that context the engine is more than up to the job. It’s got decent punch off the mark but a big torque hole in the mid range as it switches between direct- and port injection, and then zings at the top of the rev range where it produces its maximum outputs within a small powerband.

What’s it like to drive?

In a word; fun. The Performance Kit doesn’t fundamentally change the character of the 86 but the Brembos provide slightly better stopping power and the new dampers help the car feel even more responsive.

But the simple pleasure of the 86 remains. It may not be the most powerful sports car but it has a great balance of its key elements - power, grip and control.

What’s it like inside?

The red highlights on the seats of our test car were a nice touch but if you’re looking for a premium sports car experience you’re in the wrong place. This is a humble coupe with a focus on performance not presentation.

All the basic elements are covered - a nice leather-wrapped steering wheel, easy-to-read dials, etc - but the plastics feel cheap and the infotainment system lacks sophistication.

You get what you pay for and the 86 GTS provides plenty of bang-for-your-buck.

Is it safe?

All 86 comes with seven airbags and a reversing camera but active safety features, such as autonomous emergency braking, aren’t available.

Would I buy it?

Yes. It isn’t the most polished sports car out there but it’s one of the most fun. The Performance Kit adds a new layer of appeal without spoiling the simplicity of what makes the 86 so delightful.

What else should I consider?

The Subaru BRZ tS is the most direct rival, as it’s largely the same car with the same new performance parts. At $39,894 it’s so close in price it’ll come down to personal preference which version you buy.

The Nissan 370Z has come down in price to $49,990 if you want a more powerful V6 sports coupe.

If you’re willing to look beyond the rear-wheel drive, two-door layout there are plenty of good hot hatches at this price, such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST, Subaru WRX and the forthcoming Hyundai i30 N and Renault Megane RS.